Greg Stanton, former player and football analyst, believes that Manchester City under the guidance of Enzo Maresca may worry Arsenal with their 100% start to the new Premier League season.
Arsenal's Victory in the Super Cup
Last month, Arsenal delivered a psychological blow to their rivals with a decisive 3-0 victory over City in the Super Cup. This win in Cardiff was seen as a strong indication of Arsenal's power in the upcoming competitions. However, Maresca has managed to steer City back on the right path after taking over from Pep Guardiola, and now the team is on a five-match winning streak across all competitions.
City's Brilliance in the Manchester Derby
On Sunday, Manchester City managed to win a controversial Manchester derby despite playing with 10 men. This victory allowed City to reclaim their position at the top of the Premier League table. Arsenal had also joined the top of the table 24 hours before this match with a win over Sunderland. City is now alongside Arsenal with 4 wins from 4 matches in the Premier League.
Stanton analyzed Arsenal's mental changes after last season's championship and said: "There may have been changes in Arsenal's mentality, and now they have reached the best team and the best lineup. With last season's victory, they no longer worry about the championship and feel they can easily cross the finish line."
Arsenal's Concern About Competing with City
Stanton also pointed out Arsenal's concern about City's return to competition, adding: "Arsenal should be worried because they know they now have a more serious rival. City's victory in the Manchester derby could be concerning for Arsenal."
Maresca praised the effort and spirit of his players after the derby win, saying: "Phil Foden's red card changed our plan a bit, but the effort and spirit of the players were outstanding. We performed well with 10 men and managed to defend ourselves."
Regarding Foden's red card, he said: "That card could be correct, but at the same moment, Bruno could have also received a red card. That's a fact."
Given the current trend, Arsenal and City will undoubtedly compete fiercely for the Premier League championship this season. Stanton noted that if Arsenal can create a gap, no other team may be able to return to the competition.
